Why You Should Ditch Sub-Compact and Carry Mid-Size (VIDEO)

I ditched the single stack sub-compact as my carry gun a couple of years ago, opting for a mid-size Glock 19 to serve as my everyday carry pistol. Visitors to my social media pages and even range buddies often gaze in disbelief that my petite frame can cart such a “big gun,” but actually I find the Glock 19 and other mid-size options better concealed carry options for a few reasons.

1. A larger, heavier frame grants greater control

The larger frame on the Glock 19 gives me better control while shooting. (Photo: Jacki Billings/Guns.com)

The idea that a concealed carrier would choose a heavier, larger gun to hide away on-body seems counter to what we’re told about concealed carry, but actually, the larger heavier frame lends itself to better overall shooting should the need arise. While we always hope to escape negative situations without the use of our gun, there might come a time when that’s not an option. In that scenario, producing fast, accurate shots on target is essential. A larger, heavier frame better facilitates that through its construction.

A mid-size gun introduces a larger frame and grip area allowing for more direct, skin contact with the gun. The more skin touching the firearm, the more control the shooter has; thus, improving accuracy and ensuring faster follow-up shots. Mid-size guns also bring added weight which translates to less recoil on follow-ups.

2. Bigger guns offer better concealment

The longer slide helps center the mass of the gun below the beltline. (Photo: Jacki Billings/Guns.com)

Again, it seems counterintuitive that larger guns provide easier concealment. In reality, the longer slide goes a long way to achieve a more concealed firearm. Mid-size guns sport a longer slide which, when holstered in an inside-the-waistband holster, centers the majority of the gun’s mass below the beltline. Ultimately, for the concealer, this equates to a less floppy feel and more stability on the belt. The placement prevents the gun’s grip from rotating away from the body and create sharp points that print.

3. Longer slide improves accuracy

Mid-size guns are known for having longer slides than sub-compacts. This added length up front offers a greater sight radius. Sight radius refers to the distance from the front sight to the rear sight and the longest the sight radius, the more accurate the gun. Again, accuracy is the name of the game when training at the range or should we ever draw and fire our gun in a self-defense context. Having that longer slide radius better equips the shooter delivering better overall accuracy, all things considered.

4. Mid-size guns bring more capacity

A midsize gun offers more versatility by giving concealers the option to leave the spare mag at home. (Photo: Jacki Billings/Guns.com)

Carrying a spare magazine is a technique I always advocate for; however, sometimes it’s just not practical. Equipped with a mid-size Glock 19, though, I feel confident heading out into the world with 15+1 rounds versus a smaller, single stack with only six or seven rounds to give. The Glock 19’s larger round count provides more flexibility which, in turn, opens the door for my clothing options. With a single stack that versatility is gone, and I’m left with fighting for limited space on my belt line for that spare magazine.

Carry a Mid-Size Handgun

A mid-size gun, like the Glock 19, delivers more incentives to shooters than sub-compacts. Offering better accuracy, improved concealment and a larger round count I suggest others step up to a mid-size carry gun and take it for a whirl.